Moving can be stressful, especially for families who have become pros at it, like mine. We thought we had seen it all with over 10 moves in 14 years as an international and military family. That was until we decided to move from our family home onto a sailboat, a unique challenge that caught us off guard.
The transition from land-based dwellings to a sailboat presented a completely different set of obstacles. The most daunting task was figuring out what to do with all our belongings that couldn't come along for the voyage. Our solution? Storage, and lots of it. Throughout the years, we have dispersed items among friends across the globe. We are eternally grateful to those dear friends who have been graciously holding onto our possessions. While we haven't wholly decluttered, we've certainly made significant progress.
In our quest for long-term storage options, we explored various options, from traditional storage companies to purchasing remote small holdings. Ultimately, we decided on a more cost-effective approach: acquiring a large ISO container and securing a small plot to house it. This decision saved us money and offered unparalleled benefits, such as flexibility, enhanced ownership of risk, and fewer restrictions on the types of items we could store.
Although this method has disadvantages, such as limited accessibility, the advantages far outweigh the drawbacks. Moreover, having our possessions pre-packed in an ISO container means that if we settle overseas, our belongings will be ready for shipment.
Just like in previous moves, we underwent a rigorous decluttering process. Our unwanted items found new homes through platforms like Facebook, thrift shops, and generous friends who found treasures in our castaways.
ISO containers from reputable providers come with weathertight guarantees, ensuring our possessions stay safe and secure for the long haul. This option gave us peace of mind, knowing that our valuables are protected against the elements even at sea.
Moving onto a sailboat has been a transformative experience, forcing us to reevaluate our possessions and truly understand their value. Through careful planning and strategic decisions, we have successfully navigated the challenges of downsizing and long-term storage, paving the way for our exciting seafaring adventure.
Embarking on this unconventional journey has taught us valuable lessons about letting go, embracing change, and adapting to new environments. While the road ahead may be uncertain, we are excited to set sail, carrying only what truly matters with us.
This is the story of our transition from a family home onto a sailboat. It is a tale of challenges, decisions, and sailing around the world, solving each problem in turn.
Comments